離して
hanashite
In Japanese, "get off me" is translated as 離して (hanashite).
This phrase is used specifically when someone is physically holding, grabbing or clinging to you.
Which one should you use?
While 離して is a standard way to say get off me, 放して is used specifically for the meaning "Let go". If you want someone to distance themselves rather than release a physical hold, use 離れて (Back off). For a more forceful or emphatic tone, 離れろよ can be used to mean "Just get off me".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
離して is a common way to state the command. For a much more aggressive and forceful tone, you can use the imperative form 離せ (let go!). To make the command more polite, you can use 離してください (please let go/get off me), although the shorter form is more common during a physical struggle.
How does it change in a sentence?
To make the command more polite, you can add ください to the end of the verb, resulting in 離してください.
How do you pronounce it?
hanashite
Did you know?
- In Japanese, the term 'skinship' is a loanword used to describe the physical bonding and touch that defines close relationships. Using 離して often marks a sudden and significant breach of these social boundaries.
- While the dictionary uses the same pronunciation for both versions, the kanji for 離して (to separate/distance) and 放して (to release/set free) are visually distinct and change the subtle nuance of how you are being held.
- The aggressive command 離せ is a staple of anime and action cinema. However, using it in a real-life social setting can make the speaker sound unintentionally threatening or hostile.
Examples in context
- ちょっと、離して！Chotto, hanashite!Hey, get off me!
- 痛いから、離して。Itai kara, hanashite.It hurts, so let go of me.
- お願いだから、離して。Onegai dakara, hanashite.Please, get off me.
Example conversation
Misaki is hugging Yota too tightly from behind.
- 美咲 Misaki陽太くん、大好き！Yota-kun, daisuki!I love you, Yota!
- 陽太 Yota苦しいよ、離して！Kurushii yo, hanashite!I can't breathe, get off me!
- 美咲 Misakiごめん、離すね。Gomen, hanasu ne.Sorry, I'll let go.
- 陽太 Yotaありがとう。Arigatou.Thanks.
